"The most crucial improvement is the game's brand-new physics engine. The sweet science is represented in a much more true-to-life manner in FN4, and that's most plainly seen where the fist meets the face. Every punch in FN4 is procedurally animated on the fly, meaning that punches are nearly as varied as you would find in a real boxing match."

"Boxer's individual attributes are also being taken into greater consideration. For example, in the fight we saw, Tyson's shorter reach meant he had to get in close to Ali to do some real damage with quick hits, while Ali's greater reach afforded him some distance, but he was also slower overall. This system of tactical trade-offs will play out across eight weight classes and, as we were told, more than 45 boxers."

I like the elimination of the "Cutman Minigame". Now between rounds you can spend "Points" on replenishing your health, stamina, or blocking ability or just bank your points for later in the fight.
Great blocking system and EA has finally heard the cries to do away with the parry.

They're fine. I actually prefer an always connected experience.
I'd really prefer an offline way to play, but its not a bother.
I don't really like them, and am more reluctant to buy a game because of it.
I won't buy them. I want my games offline.